The U.S. is pursuing a Venezuelan oil tanker amid escalating tensions from Trump’s tightening blockade. While the White House claims to be cracking down on black-market oil, a prominent Republican criticizes it as a provocation.

Plus, more pressure to release the Epstein files and more anger over what remains hidden. Heavy redactions, missing details and growing demands for answers.

And Jim Beam is suspending production at its main plant. The company said it’s a pause, not a crisis. What’s behind the slowdown, and whether the bourbon giant is really on the rocks.

These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Monday, December 22, 2025.